What kind of engine does a Taurus SHO have?
Across its multiple generations, the Taurus SHO has used several different engines. The most recent SHO (2010–2019) relies on Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, while earlier generations used Yamaha-built V6s and, briefly, a V8. The short answer: the Taurus SHO has had multiple engine configurations over the years, evolving from a Yamaha-designed V6 to Ford’s EcoBoost V6.
Overview of the engine lineup
Below is a concise outline of the engine types that have powered the Taurus SHO across its history. This gives you the core engines by generation, noting the major shifts in design philosophy from naturally aspirated V6s to turbocharged V6 power.
- 1989–1991: Yamaha-developed 3.0-liter DOHC V6
- 1992–1995: Continued use of the 3.0-liter V6 with refinements
- 1996–1999: 3.4-liter DOHC V8 (the SHO’s brief switch to a V8)
- 2010–2019: 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 (Ford’s modern performance setup)
Note: Engine availability and output varied by model year and market. The 2010s SHO also offered all-wheel drive as an option, and horsepower figures evolved through mid-cycle updates.
Generation-by-generation engine details
First generation (1989–1991): Yamaha 3.0-liter DOHC V6
The original Taurus SHO introduced in 1989 used a Yamaha-designed 3.0-liter double-overhead-cam V6. This engine was developed in collaboration with Yamaha and marked the SHO’s departure from the more common Ford V6 approach, delivering a higher-revving, performance-oriented profile for its time.
Second generation (1992–1995): Refined Yamaha V6
In the early 1990s, the SHO retained the Yamaha-based 3.0-liter V6, but with refinements for response and efficiency. Torque and power characteristics were tuned to emphasize a more aggressive, near-sporty feel while preserving everyday drivability.
Third generation (1996–1999): 3.4-liter DOHC V8
For a brief period the SHO moved to a larger V8 configuration: a 3.4-liter DOHC V8. This shift aimed to deliver more straight-line performance and a different character from the earlier V6s, before Ford ultimately returned to a V6 layout in later generations.
Fourth generation revival (2010–2019): 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6
The modern Taurus SHO reintroduced the SHO badge in 2010 with Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6. This engine features direct injection and twin turbochargers to produce substantial power and torque, with all-wheel-drive versions available and horsepower typically around the mid-300s, depending on year and configuration. This setup represents the culmination of Ford’s turbocharged, performance-focused V6 philosophy in the Taurus line.
In sum, the Taurus SHO’s engine story is a journey from Yamaha’s 3.0-liter V6 through a brief V8 era to Ford’s contemporary EcoBoost V6, reflecting shifts in engineering approaches and market demands over several decades.
Summary: The Taurus SHO has been powered by multiple engine configurations across its history, including a Yamaha 3.0-liter DOHC V6 (1989–1995), a 3.4-liter DOHC V8 (1996–1999), and Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 (2010–2019). The most recent and widely recognized SHO variant uses the EcoBoost V6, underscoring a modern performance emphasis with turbocharged output and all-wheel-drive availability.
